Germany and the Netherlands aim to connect hydrogen grids

The governments of Germany and the Netherlands have agreed on closer cooperation to connect their respective hydrogen pipeline networks in the future, they said in a joint statement. “We will jointly facilitate all projects aimed at establishing cross-border hydrogen corridors including the Delta-Rhine Corridor and identify necessary steps to come to an ambitious implementation,” they said after German chancellor Olaf Scholz, prime minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte and ministers from both governments met in Rotterdam for the fourth German-Dutch cabinet consultation. The first two interconnections could be realised by 2027, they said. The governments held a joint session exclusively devoted to hydrogen infrastructure, with a follow-up meeting planned at the end of 2023. They also said Germany and the Netherlands want to develop a common vision on hydrogen import policies as well as a joint roadmap along the value chain. At a press conference, Rutte said that the two countries would also work together more closely on offshore wind power and hydrogen production in the North Sea. “How do we ensure that we work together to become the green engine of Europe?” he said.

Grid operators presented their vision for a 'European Hydrogen Backbone' as part of the efforts to transform the continent’s energy system towards climate neutrality. The German government has also started talks with other neighbouring countries, for example on the possibility of a direct pipeline link to Norway.